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Government and Politics A Level (Distance Learning) at National Extension College *Fees Payable*

Course description

**DISTANCE LEARNING COURSE**

olitics is a fascinating and complex subject, and this home study A level course will provide you with a firm grasp of its underlying principles and systems. As well as teaching you about how the UK is governed, you’ll also learn about how it integrates with the EU, how UK politics is changing, the advantages and shortcomings of different political systems, how elections work and the make-up of the British constitution. In short you’ll cover every aspect of how government and politics work, and gain a different perspective on how politicians reach the decisions that affect every aspect of our lives. This distance learning programme is perfect for anyone with an interest in politics and political systems, and aside from the obvious usefulness of the qualification for anyone wishing to pursue a career in politics, it also encourages analytical thought and the consideration of different perspectives.

You should allow for between 250 and 300 hours' study time, plus additional time for completing assignments. You will have tutor support for a period of up to 18 months from the date of enrolment.

Course content

Unit 1: People and politics

Introduction to government and politics

Democracy and political participation

Party policies and ideas

Elections

Elections and electoral reform

Pressure groups

Unit 2: Governing the UK

The constitution

Constitutional reforms in the UK

Parliament

The Prime Minister and Cabinet

Judges and civil liberties

Unit 3: Key themes in political analysis

Elections and voting

Political parties

Pressure groups

Racial and ethnic politics

Unit 4: Extended themes in political analysis

The constitution

Congress

The presidency

The Supreme Court

Entry requirements

No formal qualifications are required, but essay-writing skills are advisable.

Assessment

This course follows specifications 8GP01 (AS) and 9GP01 (A2) from the awarding organisation Edexcel. Full details of the specifications can be obtained from Edexcel's website.

Four exams: 1hr30m (25% of marks), 1hr30m (25% of marks), 1hr20m (25% of marks) and 1hr20m (25% of marks)

Six AS assignments, eight A2 assignmentsNo coursework

Please note that due to upcoming changes the final opportunity to sit exams for this course isSummer 2018.

Financial information

**FEES PAYABLE**

It’s your choice: pay in full and discount your course fees, or spread the cost with our finance offer. To pay in instalments, you will need to enrol by telephone.